Surviving PMR without pred

[redavenger]

I would like to share the fact that, 11 months into PMR, I am improving! Although my arms are still extremely painful and I can't do most of the things I used to do (yet!) My legs are a lot better and no longer keeping me awake with the pain. I am sleeping better and starting to feel that a return to normal life is possible. A combination of vitamins and oils, with acupuncture every 2 weeks has got me this far. I would not suggest that anybody else should take the same route as I have, but I am so glad I do not have the problem of reducing steroids on top of the problems caused by the illness. Going for a walk later, while the sun is shining!

[iforget]

I am delighted for you...If I could have managed without pred I would have...

[PMRpro Ambassador]

It is possible - I did it for 5 years but then the PMR morphed into a devil and I could barely get out of bed. I went to the gym every morning for an aqua class which got me moving but I never had a day free from pain and I had to adjust my lifestyle a lot. Without pred though Life would have been far harder without pred and it has been bad enough with.

I would recommend aqua classes (at your own level) and Bowen therapy or a good masseur - but you need a deep pocket and so it isn't for everyone.

[redavenger in reply to PMRpro]

Thanks for your reply, if i can get a few years of normality i will think it is worth living with the pain, you get used to it after a while and i am sleeping at present. The aqua exercise is a good idea, and i am making myself walk a bit, can do a mile at present! Massage sounds good as well. I know treatment is expensive but worth it to get the help that is not available from the NHS. Thanks for being there!